Kelechi Nwakali Scores First Goal in Over 200 Days for Barnsley

Nigerian midfielder Kelechi Nwakali ended his long goal drought with a stunning strike in Barnsley’s 2-1 win over Exeter City on Saturday. This was Nwakali’s first goal since April 27, when he scored for Casa Pia in a 3-1 loss to Chaves in Portugal.

The 25-year-old, who joined Barnsley this summer after playing for Casa Pia, made his first league start for the team. He replaced the suspended Adam Phillips in the starting lineup and took full advantage of the opportunity.

Barnsley Comes From Behind to Win

The match began with Barnsley trailing after Exeter City’s Josh Magennis scored in the 13th minute from a deflected free-kick. Barnsley struggled to break down Exeter’s defense in the first half.

However, the second half saw a dramatic change. Just five minutes after the restart, Nwakali received the ball outside the box and fired a powerful 25-yard shot into the bottom corner of the net to level the score.

The momentum shifted, and Barnsley capitalized eight minutes later when Davis Keillor-Dunn scored to complete the comeback and secure all three points.

This victory was Barnsley’s first come-from-behind win of the season, ending a six-game winless streak.

Nwakali’s Joy After Scoring

For Nwakali, the goal was especially meaningful as it marked his first goal since April. He shared his excitement on social media, saying, “Thanks to God. First goal, three points. Come on you Reds.”

Nwakali, who won the Golden Ball at the 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup, had a tough time breaking into Arsenal’s first team due to work permit issues. After leaving the club, he spent time on loan at various teams before finding a place at Barnsley, where he made his EFL debut in October.

The match against Exeter City was his first league start for Barnsley, and he made it count with a memorable goal.